quadiator smackdown!
Motorized Steeds
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ANT TO COMPETE IN THE FORTUNA RODEO BUT LACK A HORSE? OK, WHAT OTHER MEANS OF TRANSPORTATION HAVE YOU GOT IN YOUR GARAGE? A QUAD RUNNER? COOL, BRING THAT. A LAWNMOWER? SURE BRING THAT TOO.
Over the years, the Fortuna Rodeo has incorporated unique motorsports into its schedule to rev things up a bit. And this year is no different with several opportunities to fill your nostrils with the sweet smell of exhaust. First, on Friday, be sure to check out Family Fun Night at Rohner Park, starting at 7 p.m. If it’s been a few years since you been you might be surprised how much its grown — its one of the most popular events of Rodeo week. Don’t miss the lawnmower and ATV races. But for most the highlight is none other than the glorious battle royale known as the Quadiators. “It’s a lot of excitement, full on red-neck action and people just eat it up,” said one past Quadiator competitor. Never heard of Quadiators? Here’s how it works: Put two riders on a quad and tape a balloon to the helmet of the passenger. Give them
a Wiffle ball bat, and watch as they swerve and circle their opponents while trying to bash them on the head, well, pop the balloon anyway. The first team to get popped loses, and is eliminated; the champs move on to another heat. And so it goes until a grand champ is proclaimed. For those of you who grew up playing video games, think “Live Action Mario Kart.” If you’d like a preview, just search YouTube for “Quadiators” and you’ll find clips of the onlyin-Fortuna action. Quadiators is underwritten by Pacific Motorsports. ✪
MOTORSPORT EVENTS ARE FRIDAY NIGHT AT THE RODEO GROUNDS
TOP, RIGHT AND BOTTOM QUADIATORS DO BATTLE TO POP THEIR OPPONENTS’ BALLOONS. FAR RIGHT QUADS AND RHINOS RACE THE CLOCK.
PHOTOS BY CAROL NILES PHOTOGRAPHY
FREE SHUTTLE! FRIDAY NIGHT
Ride the FREE SHUTTLE from the FORTUNA HIGH SCHOOL and RAY’S FOOD PLACE parking lots to FRIDAY FAMILY FUN NIGHT! FORTUNA RODEO 2011
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